Calls for better transport links to airport

Campaigners are calling for better transport links to Bournemouth Airport.

Poole resident Nikita Ovcinnikovs, who has launched a petition, said he and many others were surprised by the lack of bus routes to the Hurn-based site.

There is currently a bus that goes from Bournemouth town centre to the airport but it only travels twice on weekdays and arrives before 07:30.

Bournemouth Airport said it was "in active discussions" with the local council and bus firms "to explore improved connectivity".

Mr Ovcinnikovs told BBC Radio Solent: "The petition isn't there specifically to put the onus on the council because I know it's not just the council's job to get it sorted.

"It's more to get the voices heard of the local residents. Maybe that issue hasn't been raised enough and I feel like with the petition we may be able to do that."

The petition, which is on BCP Council's website, had accumulated 181 signatures by Wednesday evening. It runs until 30 June.

Morebus operates the 737 service for the route.

Richard Wade, general manager for the group, said it "would be keen to operate a trial service should funding become available for such a route".

Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council said the authority would "welcome enhanced bus services to and from the airport".

"Bus services are not operated by the council - they are provided by commercial operators and whilst the council can help subsidise some routes we are limited in what we can do," a spokesperson said.

He said that it should not be complicated to arrange more buses, as there is a route already in place.

A Bournemouth Airport spokesperson said: "We are aware of concerns around public transport access to the airport and are in active discussions with local partners, including BCP Council, to explore improved connectivity.

"This includes better public transport links and wider opportunities for improved pedestrian and cycle access as part of future development plans."

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